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Top 7 Best Scopes for 17 HMR of 2024

When searching for the perfect scope for your 17 HMR rifle in 2024, you’ll find that precision and performance are key. The Bushnell Banner’s DDB multi-coated lenses offer enhanced clarity, while the Vortex Optics Sonora’s Dead-Hold BDC Reticle guarantees accuracy. Durable options like the Leupold VX-Freedom’s shockproof build and Burris Fullfield E1’s nitrogen-filled tubes promise reliability.
Each scope, from the Burris Fullfield II’s precision adjustments to the Nightforce SHV’s advanced glass quality, caters to various needs. Curious about which scope might best suit your shooting style? Let’s explore the details.

Top 7 Best Scopes for 17 HMR on the Market 2024

Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!

1. Bushnell Banner 4-12x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope

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The Bushnell Banner 4-12x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope is perfect for hunters looking for a reliable, long-range scope that excels in low-light conditions.
This scope is part of the Dusk & Dawn series, featuring DDB multi-coated lenses that enhance clarity and brightness, essential for early morning or late evening hunts.
It’s designed to withstand various weather conditions, boasting a waterproof and fog-proof build. The scope’s adjustable objective and quick adjust rear dial guarantee precise targeting, making it suitable for multiple hunting scenarios, from small to large game.
Users appreciate its durability and value for money, often recommending it for its performance and affordability. Overall, this riflescope combines functionality and reliability, making it a top choice for budget-conscious hunters.
Best For: Hunters looking for a reliable, long-range riflescope that performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions and is budget-friendly.
Pros:
DDB multi-coated lenses provide excellent clarity and brightness.
Waterproof and fog-proof design ensures durability in various weather conditions.
Adjustable objective and quick adjust rear dial for precise targeting.
Cons:
May not offer the same features as higher-end scopes.
Limited to 12x magnification, which may not be sufficient for very long-range shooting.
Some users might find it slightly heavier compared to other scopes in its class.

2.
Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12x44 Riflescope

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For shooters seeking a versatile and reliable scope for their 17 HMR rifles, Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12x44 Riflescope with Dead-Hold BDC Reticle offers unparalleled clarity and durability. Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope isn’t only shockproof and waterproof but also fogproof, ensuring consistent performance in various conditions.
The fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission, providing clear and bright images, while the Dead-Hold BDC Reticle helps eliminate guesswork on holdover and windage corrections. Additionally, the locking diopter eyepiece allows for personalized settings, and the hard anodized finish offers a low-glare matte surface.
With a generous 4-inch eye relief and Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional lifetime VIP Warranty, you’re guaranteed a quality optic that’s built to last.
Best For: Shooters looking for a versatile and durable scope for their 17 HMR rifles that offers excellent clarity and easy adjustments.
Pros:
Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof construction ensures reliability in various conditions.
Fully multi-coated lenses provide enhanced light transmission for clear and bright images.
Backed by an unlimited, unconditional lifetime VIP Warranty.
Cons:
Does not include night vision capabilities.
Some users may find the brightness insufficient in low-light conditions.
The warranty does not cover loss, theft, or deliberate damage.

3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

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Hunters seeking a durable, high-quality scope will appreciate the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features. Constructed from 6061-T6 aircraft-quality aluminum, this riflescope guarantees longevity and performance in various environments.
Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it ideal for dawn or dusk hunting. The precision 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments offer accurate and easy modifications, enabling you to fine-tune your shot with confidence.
With a magnification range of 3-9x and an objective lens diameter of 40mm, you’ll enjoy a field of view of 13.6 feet, providing excellent target acquisition. Backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee, this scope promises reliability and peace of mind for every hunting expedition.
Best For: Hunters who need a durable, high-quality scope with excellent low-light performance and precise adjustments.
Pros:
Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction ensures durability in various environments.
Twilight Light Management System improves visibility during dawn and dusk hunting.
Precision 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments allow for accurate and easy modifications.
Cons:
Some users may find it slightly more expensive compared to other scopes.
Limited field of view at higher magnifications.
Requires sign-in for price matching feedback submission.

4. BURRIS Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm Hunting Scope

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Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm hunting scope, with its high-grade optical glass and durable construction, is perfect for shooters seeking exceptional brightness and precision in their 17 HMR rifles. This scope offers a high magnification range, making it ideal for extended long-range shooting.
The index-matched Hi-Lume multicoating greatly enhances low-light performance and reduces glare, guaranteeing clear visibility in various lighting conditions. Its 1-piece outer tube is designed to withstand shock and vibrations, maintaining zero through recoil.
The long-range MOA reticle aids in precision without clutter, while the trajectory-compensating technology and cascading dots help account for wind drift. Finger-adjustable windage and elevation turrets provide a sleek profile, and nitrogen-filled tubes ensure fog-free performance.
Overall, it’s a highly recommended scope for its clarity, construction, and performance.
Best For: Hunters and shooters seeking a high-performance scope with exceptional clarity and precision for long-range shooting.
Pros:
High-grade optical glass ensures exceptional brightness and clarity.
Durable 1-piece outer tube withstands shock and vibrations.
Hi-Lume multicoating enhances low-light performance and reduces glare.
Cons:
Adjustment turrets may feel soft and lack tactile feedback.
Relatively heavy at 1.5 pounds, which may affect balance on lighter rifles.
Requires sign-in for feedback submission on price comparisons.

5.
Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope

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With its clear optics and durable design, the Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope is perfect for those looking to enhance their accuracy and reliability while using a 17 HMR rifle. Featuring a 3X-9X magnification range and a 40mm objective lens, this matte black scope provides versatile performance.
The Ballistic Plex reticle aids in precise targeting, making it highly recommended for hunting. Constructed from alloy steel, this scope is both robust and lightweight, weighing only 368.54 grams. The 3-inch eye relief ensures comfortable viewing, while the 33-foot field of view at the lowest magnification offers excellent situational awareness.
Compatible with Weaver mounts, this scope is backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, guaranteeing long-term satisfaction and reliability for all users.
Best For: Hunters looking for a reliable, versatile, and durable scope with clear optics and precise targeting capabilities.
Pros:
Clear and bright optics
Durable alloy steel construction
Lifetime warranty from Burris
Cons:
Not equipped with night vision
Limited to Weaver mount compatibility
Eye relief may be too short for some users

6. Athlon Optics Talos BTR GEN2 4-14x44 Scope

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The Athlon Optics Talos BTR GEN2 4-14x44 is perfect for shooters who need a reliable, high-performance scope with advanced fully multi-coated glass for better light transmission and true color.
This scope is constructed from durable aircraft aluminum, ensuring long-lasting use in various environments. It’s waterproof and nitrogen-purged, preventing fogging and maintaining clear visibility under all conditions.
The illuminated reticle aids in targeting, while the precision zero stop system allows for accurate adjustments, enhancing your shooting precision.
With dimensions of 17 x 3.75 x 3.5 inches and a weight of 1.29 kilograms, it’s sturdy yet manageable.
The Talos BTR GEN2 also comes with a lifetime warranty, guaranteeing its quality and performance over time.
Best For: Shooters who need a reliable, high-performance scope with advanced features for better light transmission and precise targeting.
Pros:
Advanced fully multi-coated glass for superior light transmission and true color.
Durable construction with waterproof and nitrogen-purged design.
Illuminated reticle and precision zero stop system for accurate adjustments.
Cons:
Relatively heavy at 1.29 kilograms.
Larger dimensions may not be ideal for all rifle setups.
Higher price point compared to basic models.

7.
NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope

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For shooters seeking unparalleled precision and versatility, the Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA scope offers exceptional clarity and powerful magnification. This model, the most powerful in the SHV series, is suitable for various shooting applications.
It features an impressive 80 MOA of elevation adjustment, side parallax adjustment, and ZeroSet technology, allowing for a quick return to zero. The scope comes equipped with rubber lens covers and a cleaning cloth, enhancing its durability and ease of maintenance.
Reticle options include the MOAR with 1 MOA elevation and windage markings, and the Forceplex, designed for hunters with a clean field of view. Customers praise its glass quality and tracking accuracy, making it ideal for long-range shooting.
Best For: Shooters seeking unparalleled precision and versatility for various shooting applications, particularly long-range shooting.
Pros:
Exceptional clarity and glass quality
80 MOA of elevation adjustment with ZeroSet technology
Available in both illuminated and non-illuminated reticle options
Cons:
Heavier weight at 1.91 pounds
May be considered expensive by some users
Night vision capability may not be necessary for all shooting applications

Factors to Consider When Choosing Scopes for 17 HMR

When selecting a scope for your 17 HMR rifle, you need to take into account several critical factors to guarantee peak performance and accuracy.
These include the magnification power range, which impacts how well you can see your target at various distances; the type of reticle, which can affect how you aim and shoot; and the quality of the lens coatings, which influences light transmission and clarity.
Additionally, you’ll want to assess the eye relief distance for comfort and safety, as well as the adjustment precision mechanism to make sure you can make accurate and reliable changes to your settings.

Magnification Power Range

Choosing the right magnification power range for your 17 HMR scope hinges on understanding your shooting needs and typical target distances. Generally, magnification for 17 HMR scopes ranges between 4x and 12x, offering a good balance between close-range and long-range shooting capabilities.
For instance, a higher magnification like 12x allows for better target identification and precision at longer distances, which is particularly beneficial if you anticipate shooting targets at extended ranges.
Conversely, lower magnification settings like 4x provide a wider field of view, making it easier to acquire and track moving targets at closer ranges. This versatility is crucial if you plan on engaging in dynamic shooting scenarios where targets may appear suddenly and move quickly.
It’s important to take into account the type of shooting you’ll be doing most often when selecting the magnification power range for your 17 HMR scope.
Ultimately, the ideal magnification range for your 17 HMR scope will depend on your specific shooting preferences, typical target distances, and the environmental conditions you’re likely to encounter. By aligning your scope’s magnification power with your shooting needs, you can enhance both your accuracy and overall shooting experience.

Reticle Type Options

After determining the appropriate magnification power range for your 17 HMR scope, the next step is to explore the various reticle type options available. Selecting the right reticle can greatly enhance your shooting accuracy and overall experience with the 17 HMR rifle.
BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles are highly beneficial for compensating bullet drop over varying distances, making them ideal for shooters who need to adjust for range without manual calculations.
Duplex reticles, known for their simplicity, offer an uncluttered sight picture, which is excellent for general shooting purposes.
MOA (Minute of Angle) and Mil-Dot reticles are designed for precision adjustments in windage and elevation, which are essential for long-range shooting scenarios. These reticles provide detailed markings that help you make precise corrections based on environmental factors.
Illuminated reticles, on the other hand, are perfect for low-light conditions, enhancing visibility when hunting at dawn, dusk, or in dense cover.
Your choice of reticle should align with your shooting preferences and typical environments, ensuring it complements how you intend to use your 17 HMR rifle. This decision will greatly impact your accuracy and enhance your overall shooting performance.

Lens Coating Quality

High-quality lens coatings are essential for maximizing light transmission and ensuring bright, clear images through your 17 HMR scope. When selecting a scope, you’ll want to prioritize fully multi-coated lenses. These coatings greatly enhance light transmission, which is important for achieving the clarity and brightness needed for precision shooting.
The type of lens coating directly impacts image clarity, color accuracy, and contrast, all of which are crucial for accurately identifying your target. Anti-reflective coatings reduce glare and improve visibility, particularly in low-light conditions, a common scenario during early morning or late evening hunting sessions. This can make a significant difference in your ability to maintain a clear line of sight.
Additionally, quality lens coatings enhance the durability and scratch resistance of the scope, ensuring it withstands the rigors of outdoor use. This durability translates into a longer-lasting, more reliable piece of equipment.
Ultimately, choosing a scope with superior lens coatings will greatly elevate your shooting experience and accuracy with a 17 HMR rifle. Investing in high-quality lens coatings ensures that you get the best possible performance, giving you a clear advantage in the field.

Eye Relief Distance

When selecting a scope for your 17 HMR rifle, eye relief distance is vital for ensuring both comfort and safety during shooting sessions. Eye relief distance refers to the gap between your eye and the scope where you can see a full, clear image without any shadowing.
For 17 HMR rifles, which have moderate recoil, an eye relief of around 3 to 4 inches is typically sufficient to prevent any potential scope eye injuries.
It’s important to choose a scope that offers a comfortable eye relief distance suited to your shooting style and rifle setup. Longer eye relief distances are generally beneficial for high-powered rifles with heavier recoil, as they help prevent the scope from making contact with your eye under recoil. However, for the 17 HMR, the standard 3 to 4 inches should be adequate.
Eye relief can vary between different scopes, so consider your shooting position and any potential recoil when making your selection. Ensuring the proper eye relief distance will maximize your comfort and safety, allowing you to maintain focus and accuracy during your shooting sessions.

Adjustment Precision Mechanism

Selecting a scope with a precise adjustment mechanism is essential for maximizing the accuracy and performance of your 17 HMR rifle. When pondering a scope, look for models featuring target turrets or exposed turrets, which facilitate easy and accurate adjustments in windage and elevation. These types of turrets allow for precise and responsive modifications that can greatly enhance your shooting accuracy.
Moreover, make sure the scope offers repeatable adjustment clicks. This feature guarantees consistency when dialing in corrections for various shooting distances, providing you with reliable performance every time. Tactile and audible adjustment clicks are also important, as they enable you to make necessary adjustments without taking your eyes off the target, ensuring continuous focus and precision.
Another indispensable feature to contemplate is the zero-reset capability. Scopes with zero-reset features allow you to quickly return to your zero setting after making adjustments for different shooting conditions, simplifying the process and ensuring your scope remains accurate.
Lastly, tracking reliability is a necessity. A scope with dependable tracking ensures that any adjustments you make correspond accurately to the intended changes in the point of impact, maintaining the rifle’s precision and performance.

Durability and Construction

While precision adjustments are key for accuracy, you’ll also want a scope that stands up to the rugged demands of shooting with a 17 HMR rifle. Durability and construction play an important role in guaranteeing your scope performs reliably under various conditions. Look for scopes made from durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, as these can withstand recoil and rough handling without compromising structural integrity.
Moreover, it’s critical to check for scopes that offer waterproof and fog-proof features. This ensures that your scope remains functional in diverse weather conditions, maintaining visibility and accuracy even in rain or humidity. Shockproof construction is another crucial factor, as it helps the scope maintain zero and accuracy after repeated use, a necessity for consistent performance.
High-quality lenses and coatings are also essential; they enhance light transmission and clarity, providing a clear, sharp image crucial for precise shooting. Opt for scopes with sturdy, one-piece tube designs, which add to the overall durability and reliability of the scope, ensuring that all internal components remain aligned and protected.

Price and Value

Finding the right balance between cost and quality is essential when choosing a scope for your 17 HMR rifle. Scopes can range from budget-friendly options to high-end models, and it’s important to evaluate the value for money by examining features such as lens quality, durability, and additional functionalities. It’s not just about the initial price tag but how well the scope performs and suits your specific shooting needs.
To determine the best value proposition, compare the scope’s price with its performance capabilities. Look for scopes that offer a good balance between cost and quality, making sure that you maximize your investment. Features like high-quality lenses, robust construction, and useful additional functionalities can greatly enhance your shooting experience.
Also, consider the warranty and customer service provided by the manufacturer, as these aspects contribute to the overall value of the product. A reliable warranty can save you from future expenses, and excellent customer service ensures that any issues you encounter are promptly addressed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right scope for your 17 HMR rifle in 2024 is essential for achieving peak precision and performance. With options like the Bushnell Banner’s multi-coated lenses and the Nightforce SHV’s advanced glass quality, there’s a scope to match every shooter’s needs.
Consider factors such as clarity, durability, and reticle type to make an informed decision. By selecting from these top 7 scopes, you’ll enhance your shooting experience and guarantee reliability in various conditions.
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